Brigadoon (1954)

Plot: Based on the Lerner and Lowe Broadway Musical.  Two American Hunters discover an enchanted Scottish Village that appears every 100 years for one day.
Stars:  Gene Kelly, Van Johnson, Cyd Charisse
Plus: Talented cast, some good songs
Minus: Kelly's singing, lack of charm, sluggish plot

A Box office dud when released, Brigadoon is an enjoyable musical that somehow disappoints. The plot often seems sluggish and thin. The romance is colorless and despite a short 108 minutes run time, it seems longer.  While the songs are excellent, I felt the whole thing needed more charm and humor.  Accordingly,  I was surprised to learn the *play* had been praised as " a scintillating song and dance fantasy" - because "scintillating" is the last word I'd use for the film.

So, what went wrong in adopting the play to film?  
Lyricist Alan Lerner identified three reasons:  (1) A singing play had been turned into a dancing film (2) A Scottish supporting cast was needed (3) the charm of the story had somehow been lost.

Gene Kelly blamed MGM's failure to film on location, but I think that's a minor reason.  IMO, Gene Kelly was simply wrong for the movie.  The songs were written for a baritone singer and Kelly's light, high voice just doesn't make the grade. Further, the dancing is uninspired and Kelly doesn't play the role with much energy or charm.  Maybe, Bing Crosby or Howard Keel could've done better.

Summary: I've been fairly critical but Brigadoon is actually an enjoyable 1950s musical.  Its just a good - above average movie - that should have been great.